You have purchased an Apple desktop computer and want to set it up so that you can access your computer desktop when you are on the road. How might you do this?
To access your Apple desktop computer's desktop when you are on the road, you can set up remote desktop access. This will allow you to connect to your desktop remotely and access its files and applications. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do this:
Step 1: Prepare your Apple desktop computer
1. Ensure that your desktop computer is connected to the internet.
2. Make sure you have the latest version of macOS installed on your Apple desktop.
Step 2: Enable Remote Desktop
1. Go to the "System Preferences" on your Apple desktop computer.
2. Click on "Sharing."
3. Check the box next to "Screen Sharing" to enable it. You can also configure other settings, such as allowing access for specific users.
Step 3: Set up a static IP address or domain name
1. If you have a static IP address provided by your internet service provider, skip this step. Otherwise, continue.
2. To set up a static IP address, open the "System Preferences" on your Apple desktop computer.
3. Click on "Network."
4. Choose your active network connection (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet) from the left sidebar.
5. Click on "Advanced" and go to the "TCP/IP" tab.
6. Set the "Configure IPv4" dropdown to "Using DHCP with Manual Address."
7. Enter a static IP address in the "IPv4 Address" field. You may need to consult your network administrator or internet service provider for the appropriate address.
8. Click "OK" to save the changes.
Step 4: Configure your router
1. Access your router's settings by entering its IP address in a web browser. The IP address is typically found on the router itself or in its user manual.
2. Look for the "Port Forwarding" or "Virtual Server" section in your router settings.
3. Add a new port forwarding rule.
4. Enter the static IP address of your Apple desktop computer as the destination IP address.
5. Define the port range to forward (e.g., 5900 for VNC).
6. Save the changes.
Step 5: Install a remote desktop app on your portable device
1. Go to the App Store on your portable device (e.g., iPhone or iPad).
2. Search for a remote desktop app such as "Microsoft Remote Desktop" or "Chrome Remote Desktop."
3. Install the app of your choice.
Step 6: Connect to your Apple desktop computer remotely
1. Launch the remote desktop app on your portable device.
2. Enter the IP address or domain name of your Apple desktop computer.
3. If prompted, provide your login credentials (username and password) for your desktop computer.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to establish the remote connection.
5. Once connected, you should be able to see and control your Apple desktop computer's desktop remotely.
Remember to keep your Apple desktop computer and portable device secure by using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication whenever possible.
To access your Apple desktop computer when you are on the road, you can set up remote desktop access. Here's how you can achieve this:
1. Enable Screen Sharing: Go to System Preferences on your desktop computer and select "Sharing." In the Sharing preferences, check the box next to "Screen Sharing." You can also configure additional settings like specific user access, and whether to require a password.
2. Set Up a Static IP Address: To ensure you can always reach your desktop computer, it is recommended to set up a static IP address. This can be done on your router's settings page. Consult your router's manual or the manufacturer's website for instructions on setting up a static IP.
3. Configure Port Forwarding: This step depends on your network setup and router configuration. You'll need to configure port forwarding on your router to direct incoming connections to your desktop computer. Specifically, you need to forward the default VNC (Virtual Network Computing) port, which is 5900, to your desktop computer's static IP address. The process for port forwarding varies between router models, so consult your router's manual or the manufacturer's website for instructions.
4. Obtain your Public IP Address: Your public IP address is the address you'll use while on the road to connect to your desktop computer. You can find your public IP address by searching "What is my IP address" on any internet search engine.
5. Connect to your Desktop Computer: While on the road, you'll need a VNC client to connect to your desktop computer. There are several VNC clients available for different devices and operating systems, such as RealVNC, TightVNC, or TigerVNC. Install a VNC client on your laptop or mobile device. Open the VNC client and enter your public IP address. If you set a password in the screen sharing settings, you'll need to enter it as well.
6. Access your Desktop: Once connected, you should see your desktop and be able to control your Apple desktop computer remotely. You can access files, launch applications, and perform any other tasks as if you were sitting in front of the computer.
Remember to consider security measures such as using strong passwords and connecting through a secure network or VPN if accessing your desktop remotely over the internet.
Have called Apple to ask this?
1-800-MY-APPLE or 1(800) 275-2273
You will have to give more details, like what device are you trying to access it from, so you use iCloud to have information on both devices.
Good luck.